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41
JAN 5, 2026 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Study Meeting - January 5, 2026: Sidewalk Waivers, Waiver Petitions, and Contract Approvals

The Livonia City Council held a study meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. in City Hall Auditorium. All seven councilmembers were present: President Reid, Vice President Brockway, and Councilmembers Budzinski, Persiconi, Ptashnik, McCullough, and McDonnell. New Director of Government Affairs and Community Outreach Erica Smith introduced herself and said the mayor could not attend. The council heard public comment, referred a proposed car-wash spacing ordinance to the Law Department, and gave direction on 17 new-business items for the January 14 regular meeting. No final votes were taken, and the meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve King (Coventry Gardens) said his ban from the Recreation Center and Senior Wellness Center was not based on misconduct but on being an outspoken critic, and asked the council to help correct what he called retribution. - Christopher Martin (resident) asked for clarification on the new Director of Government Affairs and Community Outreach position. Councilmember Budzinski explained the position already existed, the prior director left, and Erica Smith is the new liaison between council and administration. - Betsy Calhoun (Granada St.) praised the household hazardous waste program and suggested the city develop a plan for curbside electronic waste. - Noah Wojcik (Brookfield St.) raised concerns about a lifted sidewalk at Community Choice Credit Union, the sidewalk at Hubbard and Five Mile, and a downed tree near Seven Mile and Merriman, asking the city to investigate or coordinate with DTE. - Cindy Fleming (Woodring St.) suggested displaying important packet information on screens during meetings to improve transparency and reduce repeated questions. - During agenda items, Christopher Martin asked the price of the Connections Magazine printing contract ($71,736) and whether the recreation center entrance repaving would include a heating element (it would not; the estimated cost was over $1 million). Council Referral - Councilmember Ptashnik referred to the Law Department a proposed ordinance that would prohibit new car washes within one mile of any existing or already approved car wash along the same corridor. The referral was directed to the Regular portion of the January 14 agenda for a vote. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Sidewalk waiver, Livonia Builders G2, LLC (20610, 20630, 20650 Meadowview): Assistant City Engineer David Lear said there are no sidewalks in the subdivision. Council directed approval on the consent agenda. - Item 2 – Sidewalk waiver, Infinity Homes and Co., LLC (20129 Osmus): Lear said there are no sidewalks on the street, making a new one impractical. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 3 – Symmetry Management site-plan amendment (39200 Seven Mile Road): Planning and Economic Development Director Mark Taormina said the new Kava restaurant could not reach an access agreement with the Pentagon condominium association to use Chippewa Drive; the Planning Commission recommends approval with enhanced directional signage to prevent unauthorized left turns. Council directed approval on the regular agenda. - Item 4 – Outback Steakhouse SDM liquor license (13010 Middle Belt Road): Taormina explained the request for a Specially Designed Merchant license to sell packaged beer, wine, and mixed drinks. The Planning Commission voted 4-2 in December and recommended restricting the waiver to Outback rather than letting it run with the land. Petitioners said sales would follow the same ID-verification process as dining and would not be offered through third-party delivery. Councilmember McDonnell asked for additional information from the police chief because the police department letter opposed the request. Council directed approval on the regular agenda. Note: the agenda lists the petition as 2025-10-02-17; the minutes appear to repeat the Symmetry petition number 2025-02-02-05 in error. - Item 5 – Charara Property LLC oil change at car wash (38400 Joy Road): Taormina said two oil-change bays would replace a storage garage at a coin-operated car wash approved in 1985; the resolution would limit hours and lighting for the oil-change use only. No letters of dissent were reported. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 6 – Detroit Light Action LLC banquet center (28370 Joy Road): Taormina said the proposed Nova Loft banquet center would be capped at 100 people and require waivers of the 300-foot separation requirements from residential districts and a church. The applicant said events would hard-stop at 10 p.m., cleanup could continue until midnight, no alcohol would be served, and the back door would be locked. Councilmember Budzinski offered an approving motion with a 10 p.m. event end time; Councilmember McCullough offered a denying motion due to noise concerns. Council directed both approving and denying motions to the regular agenda. - Item 7 – 2026 Connections Magazine printing bid: Communications Director Kristin Houchins said Acuform was the lowest bidder, saving more than $15,000 per year versus other bidders. The three-issue contract total is $71,736, compared with a little over $85,000 paid to Hearst for the current year. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 8 – Livonia Television equipment donation to Clarenceville High School: Program Supervisor Michael DiFazio said cameras, tripods, light kits, and sound mixers would be donated directly to the school's media program rather than auctioned. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 9 – Trinity Livonia sublease and health services agreement: Parks and Recreation Superintendent Ted Davis said Trinity has provided physical and occupational rehab at the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center for 10 years; the renewal includes $60,000 per year and 20 corporate passes. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 10 – Rotondo Construction recreation center entrance repaving: Davis requested a waiver of formal bidding because Rotondo held 2025 unit pricing, with a not-to-exceed amount of $129,935.50. The work would be done in three pours to keep the center open. Councilmembers noted the project exceeds the usual $30,000 bidding threshold but supported the waiver because rebidding would cost more and delay trip-hazard fixes. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 11 – Leaf vacuum upgrade via MIDEAL: Assistant Public Works Director Doug Moore said a demo during the 2025 leaf pickup program was extremely helpful; the upgrade costs $26,500. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 12 – MISS DIG 2026 subscription: Moore said the $26,450.48 subscription is required for digging work and includes training and system costs. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 13 – Fire protection system bid: Moore said the low bidder failed to complete page three of the bid document, so Midwest Alarm Services was selected; its three-year total is $52,584, only about $300 higher than the low bid. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 14 – SOD Solutions tree trimming contract extension: Moore requested a one-year extension and an increase from $250,000 to $375,000 not-to-exceed. SOD Solutions was the low bidder in 2024 and has worked with the city since about 2009. Moore said the city spent $452,000 on tree work in 2025. Council directed approval on the regular agenda so the packet could be updated to reflect the $375,000 amount. - Item 15 – ERG Environmental Services hazardous waste contract amendment: The agenda said the drop-off would change from year-round to seven-month service, but Moore and the minutes said that wording was incorrect; the request is actually to continue or restore year-round service for the remaining two years. Moore reported 2,023 residents served in 2023 at just under $150,000; 4,200 residents in 2024 at $280,000 producing 275,000 pounds; and 4,350 residents in 2025 at $260,000 producing 268,000 pounds. Residents pay $5 per 100 pounds. Council directed approval on the regular agenda due to the wording correction. - Item 16 – Cityworks software agreement with Azteca Systems: Moore said Cityworks handles service requests, inspections, work orders, inventory, payroll, and fleet maintenance; the one-year cost is $105,952.20, split equally between refuse and water/sewer accounts. Council directed approval on consent. - Item 17 – Outside vendors for fleet maintenance: Moore requested waiving formal bidding and setting aside $300,000 for outside vendor services because DPW is training new mechanics; the amount should decrease as staff gain experience. Council directed approval on the regular agenda. Key Outcomes - All 17 items were placed on the January 14, 2026 regular meeting agenda. Items 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 16 were directed to the consent agenda; items 3, 4, 14, 15, and 17 were directed to the regular agenda; item 6 was directed to the regular agenda with both an approving and a denying motion. - The car-wash spacing ordinance referral was directed to the January 14 regular agenda for a vote. - The council did not take final votes at this study meeting; the directions set the agenda for the regular meeting.

ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 19% · PROCUREMENT PRACTICES 19% · PROCEDURAL 14% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 11%
42
DEC 17, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Meeting Summary – December 17, 2025

The Livonia City Council held its 2031st regular meeting on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting included the approval of a consent agenda, a deeply debated 4-3 vote on a new Clean Express Car Wash, unanimous adoption of amendments to the Plymouth Road Development Authority, rejection of salary increases for elected officials, and approvals for infrastructure and parks projects. The meeting also featured farewells to outgoing councilmembers Laura Toy, Scott Morgan, Lynda Scheel, and Rob Donovic. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved resolutions authorizing bulk purchases, contract renewals, and sole-source acquisitions for the Police, Fire, Public Works, and Parks departments (Items 1-9). Public Comments & Testimony - General & City Services: Multiple residents addressed the council on a variety of topics. Bob Hauser requested an update on a proposed native plant ordinance. Patty Riggio and Debbie Pinnell criticized the city's snow removal efforts and icy street conditions. Eileen McDonnell announced the passing of community volunteer Sue Daniel. Arbrinna Armstrong expressed concerns about her child's safety on a school bus. Jim Crowley voiced frustration that resident opposition to recent developments is being ignored by the council. Scott Bahr, Jackie Graham, and others thanked the outgoing councilmembers for their service. - Clean Express Car Wash (Item 10): A large number of residents voiced strong opposition to the proposed car wash at 38888 Six Mile Road. Arguments included the oversaturation of car washes in Livonia (14-17 cited), negative traffic impacts on an already congested intersection, the proximity to an historic cemetery, low property tax revenue compared to a restaurant, and a perceived lack of public input being valued. John Pastor and Brandon Grysko, representing the petitioner, spoke in support, highlighting the developer's agreement to fund a new traffic signal and intersection improvements, add an 18-foot buffer to the cemetery, and make a $5-6 million investment. Discussion Items - Clean Express Car Wash (Item 10 - Unfinished Business): Councilmember Donovic (in favor) argued the current vacant restaurant will likely be replaced by another busy restaurant without traffic improvements. The car wash provides a unique opportunity for a privately-funded, $1.4 million traffic signal at Six Mile Road and Fox Drive, reconstruction of the intersection, and an enhanced buffer for the cemetery. Councilmember Budzinski (opposed) argued Livonia is oversaturated with car washes, which are low-tax, low-job, and hard to repurpose when the market bubble bursts. She suggested a moratorium was needed. The item was approved on a 4-3 roll call vote. - Plymouth Road Development Authority (Items 11 & 12 - Unfinished Business): The council unanimously adopted second readings of ordinances amending the downtown district boundaries and adopting a new Tax Increment Finance (TIF) plan for the Plymouth Road Development Authority pursuant to Act 57. - Local Officers Compensation Commission (Item 13 - Unfinished Business): The council unanimously rejected the commission's recommendation for salary increases for elected officials for 2026-2027. Councilmember Donovic cited upcoming tough financial decisions and the need to set an example. Councilmember Toy cautioned that rejecting the increase might lead to a larger compounded increase in two years. - Belmond Properties Settlement (Item 16 - New Business): Following a closed session, the council unanimously authorized the Department of Law to settle the claims in Belmond Properties, LLC v. City of Livonia. - Rotary Park Pavilion (Item 17 - New Business): The council unanimously awarded the bid for the construction of a pavilion and restrooms at Rotary Park to George H. Pastor and Sons for $568,245. Councilmember Budzinski highlighted the funding sources: a $300,000 state appropriation, a $275,000 fund balance draw, and a $260,828 insurance reimbursement. Key Outcomes - Clean Express Car Wash: Approved (4-3, Donovic, Ptashnik, Scheel, Morgan in favor; Budzinski, Toy, McCullough opposed) subject to 22 conditions. - PRDA District Boundaries & TIF Plan: Adopted (7-0). - Elected Officials Salaries: Raises Denied (7-0). - 2025 Concrete Road Program (Item 14): Additional expenditure of $476,000 authorized (7-0). - Newburgh Road Emergency Repairs (Item 15): $99,350 expenditure authorized (7-0). - Belmond Properties Lawsuit: Settlement authorized (7-0). - Rotary Park Pavilion/Restrooms (Item 17): Bid awarded to George H. Pastor and Sons (7-0). - The meeting was adjourned at 9:23 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 24% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 15% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 14% · HISTORIC PRESERVATION 13%
43
DEC 3, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Study Meeting - December 3, 2025

The Livonia City Council held a Study Meeting on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, convened at 8:45 PM by Vice President Ptashnik. All Councilmembers were present except Scott Morgan. The meeting set the agenda for the December 17 Regular Meeting. Nine of the ten new business items were recommended for the Consent Calendar, while Item 1 (elected official salaries) was directed to the Regular Agenda for a formal vote after extensive debate. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Biga (Lancashire): Requested clarification on how Civil Service Commission matters are reported to the Council. - Stephen King (Coventry Gardens): Delivered a critical statement against numerous city expenditures, advocating for more efficient budgeting and accountability. - Councilmember Donovic (During Council Discussion): Defended Councilmember Toy against a prior public criticism regarding her eating, noting it was related to her diabetes treatment and calling for greater decorum. - Christopher Martin (Resident): Questioned the process for elected official salary increases, alleging they have been historically passed without a direct vote. - Denise Mika (Resident): Requested that the Finance Committee investigate total compensation for officials, including fringe benefits. - Cindy Fleming (Resident): Expressed strong support for the Hegira Health law enforcement/mental health co-response program. - Eileen McDonnell (Resident): Sought clarification on the scope of the traffic signal modernization project at Levan and Five Mile. Discussion Items 1. Local Officers Compensation Commission (LOCC) Salary Recommendation The LOCC, represented by Chair Glen Long, presented a recommendation for a 3.5% salary increase for elected officials in 2026 and a 4.5% increase in 2027, based on comparative data. Councilmembers Scheel, McCullough, Donovic, and Toy expressed opposition, citing the city's tight budget, potential layoffs of city staff, and the need to prioritize raises for city employees. City Attorney Carter Fisher confirmed a two-thirds majority vote is required to deny the commission's recommendation. Councilmember Scheel made a formal motion to deny the increases. The matter is scheduled for a vote at the December 17 Regular Meeting. 2-10. Remaining New Business Items (All Directed to Consent Agenda) Department heads presented the following items, all of which received motions to be placed on the Consent Agenda for the December 17 Regular Meeting: - Police Division: Waiver of bidding to renew the agreement with Hegira Health for co-response mental health services, funded by the opioid settlement. Chief Goralski reported 2,212 referrals, 894 co-responses, and an over 80% reduction in use of force. - Fire & Rescue: Purchase of five Power Pro Two stretchers from Stryker Medical. - Fire Department: Purchase of two Zoll cardiac monitor/defibrillators. - Parks and Recreation: Purchase of sole-source insecticide, fungicide, and fertilizer for the 2026 golf season. - Public Works: Award of a two-year bid to Ferguson Waterworks for water main repair clamps ($100,000/year). - Public Works: Extension of the 2026 Municipal Park Mowing Program with Brantley Development ($87,276 for 136 acres). - Public Works: Approval of a contract with ETNA Supply Company for water meters, not to exceed $1,500,000. - Public Works: Approval to purchase a jack unit replacement for a vehicle hoist through the HGAC cooperative purchasing consortium. - Engineering Division: Amendment of the engineering contract with OHM Advisors for construction engineering on traffic signal modernization at Levan/Five Mile and Lyndon/Newburgh ($133,413). City Engineer Todd Zilincik noted the project is 90% funded by the state. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Elected Official Salaries): Directed to the December 17 Regular Agenda for a supermajority vote on the motion to deny the LOCC recommendation. - Items 2 through 10: All recommended for approval as part of the Consent Agenda for the December 17 Regular Meeting.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 29% · PUBLIC WORKS 15% · BUDGET EQUITY ANALYSIS 13% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 10%
44
DEC 3, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council 2030th Regular Meeting - December 3, 2025

The 2030th Regular Meeting of the Livonia City Council was held on December 3, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. Vice President Martha Ptashnik presided. Roll call showed six members present (Toy, Donovic, McCullough, Budzinski, Scheel, Ptashnik) and one absent (Morgan). The meeting began with special recognitions for the Livonia JV Falcons football and cheerleading teams and for Carol Strom for her service on the Schoolcraft College Board of Trustees. The Night of Lights event at Greenmead was also promoted. Consent Calendar - 381-25: Approved a three-year contract extension with Allie Brothers, Inc. for police uniforms, including a 3% inflation increase, from budgeted funds. - 382-25: Approved a three-year sole-source service agreement with Brett M. Naumcheff (Michigan Police Legal Advisor Group) for constitutional policing and policy advising, totaling not to exceed $108,000. - 383-25: Approved a $70,000 contract with Plante & Moran, PLLC for temporary accounting and financial services due to department vacancies. - 384-25: Authorized an additional $45,000 expenditure to Plante & Moran for accounting services related to the FY2024 audit. - 385-25: Authorized the issuance of up to $5,000,000 in 2026 Capital Improvement Bonds (Limited Tax General Obligation) for improvements to Shelden Park (splash pad, playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, pavilion). - 386-25: Approved a contract amendment with Tivity Health Services to continue Silver Sneakers memberships at the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center at no cost to the city, with a $3.25 per visit fee and $26 monthly cap per person. - 387-25: Approved a new sublease agreement with Livonia Civic Arenas for Devon-aire and Eddie Edgar arenas (August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2031, with a five-year extension), including a 5% ice rate increase and a $25/hour surcharge for capital needs. - 388-25: Authorized purchase of two 2026 John Deere Gators and one utility tractor through the MiDEAL consortium for a total of $99,602.15, replacing aged equipment. - 389-25: Approved the proposed 2026 City Council meeting schedule (Study and Regular Meetings). Public Comments & Testimony - Denny Baronson (Wayne Rd.): Criticized Councilmember Morgan for being unprofessional at the November 17 meeting, stating Morgan refused to allow an extra minute for a resident speaking on Sheetz. Baronson requested an apology. - American Heritage Girls Troop 711: Presented wreath sponsorships for Wreaths Across America at Glen Eden Memorial Park, with a ceremony on December 13 at noon. - Steve King (Coventry Gardens): Thanked DPW for leaf pickup but criticized the scheduling; questioned cost credibility of Shelden pool renovations compared to Dearborn; raised concerns about auditor independence, noting Plante & Moran has served for 39 years and suggesting a conflict of interest. - Patty Riggio (Resident): Questioned Councilmember Scheel about who she was texting during the Sheetz November 5 vote, alleging she was coached on Robert's Rules to reverse the denial. FOIA requests for the texts were denied as Scheel used a personal phone. - Jason Murray (Michigan Enjoyer): Stated he received a veiled lawsuit threat from a council member over a critical article he wrote, calling it inappropriate and intimidating. - Christopher Martin (Resident): Opposed eating or texting during meetings, advocated free speech, and opposed giving elected officials a raise. - Jenaveve Lenoir (9063 Beatrice): Requested a historical sign at Union Cemetery to acknowledge the impact of the Fuller family, abolitionists buried there. - Noah Wojcik (15351 Brookfield): Reported icy sidewalks near the Recreation Center and a lifted sidewalk at Community Choice Credit Union, requesting safety improvements. - Lynn Mills (Resident): Announced the Livonia Vision 21 plan is evolving into "Livonia 26," with public comment period from January to March 2026. - Greg Ralko (Golf Ridge Villa): Argued the November 5 Sheetz site plan vote was improper because the rescission motion did not follow Robert's Rules; asked council to correct minutes to reflect Sheetz's concessions (no drive-through, no outdoor music). Cited city charter authority to limit gas stations. - Jim Biga (Lancashire): Asked for clarification on what exactly was approved in the Sheetz site plan, noting the minutes did not reflect conditions Sheetz had stated. Discussion Items - Item 10 – Council Office Staffing and Salaries: Council President McCullough reported on the Committee of the Whole meeting of November 17, noting discussions on staffing levels and salary adjustments. The item remains in committee to allow further review. - Item 11 – Auto-Wash Establishment (Clean Express Car Wash): Council President McCullough announced this item was removed from the agenda at Councilmember Morgan's request and will be placed on the December 17 agenda. Councilmember Donovic clarified that the removal was a routine courtesy for an absent member. - Items 12 & 13 – Plymouth Road Development Authority Amendments: Councilmember Donovic gave first reading to two ordinances: (12) amending district boundaries and (13) amending the Development Plan and adopting a new Tax Increment Finance Plan. Both are routine updates for the PRDA. - Item 14 – Rezoning at 13400 Newburgh Road (J&J Land Holdings): Councilmember Toy gave first reading to rezone from M-1 to C-2 to construct a gas station and convenience store at Newburgh & Schoolcraft. Councilmember Donovic expressed excitement, noting the site will feature a large American flag and landscaping. The petitioner claimed gasoline would be no more than $1.99/gallon. - Item 15 – Retirement System Qualifications for Membership: Councilmember Ptashnik proposed sending the ordinance to the Finance & Budget Committee rather than proceeding to a second reading. She cited concerns about potential retroactive application and unintended consequences. Councilmembers McCullough and Toy recused themselves due to potential financial interest. After public comment, the motion to refer passed 4-0. - Item 16 – Fox Creek Restaurant Lease Amendment: Council President McCullough offered an approving resolution. The amendment increases lease payments for the second five-year term, adds one five-year renewal option, and transfers the tenant LLC from George & Murphys, LLC to Coach's Corner of Livonia, LLC (owned by Nicholas Sykes). Mike and Nick Sykes addressed the council, noting no major changes are expected. The resolution passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (6-0) via Resolution 381-389. - Item 15 Referral: Resolution 390-25 passed 4-0 (Ptashnik, Budzinski, Scheel, Donovic) to refer the retirement system ordinance to the Finance & Budget Committee for further study. - Item 16 Approval: Resolution 391-25 passed 6-0 to approve the Fox Creek lease amendment and ownership transfer. - Item 11 Postponed: The auto-wash establishment request was removed from the agenda and will be taken up at the December 17 regular meeting. - Audience Communication: Multiple residents raised concerns about Sheetz, traffic lights, and procedural issues; the city engineer stated that the proposed traffic signal at Six Mile and Fox Drive would allow left turns into Quakertown subdivision.

PROCEDURAL 35% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 9% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 8% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 6%
45
NOV 17, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Study Meeting - November 17, 2025

The Livonia City Council held a study meeting on November 17, 2025, to discuss nine new business items and hear public comments. The meeting was called to order at 8:40 p.m. by Councilmember Donovic, with all seven council members present. Each agenda item received a motion to be placed on the consent calendar of the December 3, 2025 regular meeting for formal approval. Additionally, Councilmember Ptashnik moved to refer a resolution waiving fees for councilmember coffee hours to the Law Department. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve King (Coventry Gardens): Read the amended block party ordinance, stated that leaf pickup was a safety hazard due to piles, urged revisiting the schedule, expressed concerns about ADA compliance at the new Senior Wellness Center, and argued that the old courthouse should not be demolished as it is a viable structure with a new HVAC system. He requested separating the decision on the courthouse from the old senior center. - Denise Mica (Resident): Questioned the previous $43,000 allocation for finance staffing and the current $70,000 request, noted confusion over the document listing two finance directors, and asked what happened to the earlier funds. - Eileen McDonnell (Resident): Welcomed new Finance Director Benjamin Greer and expressed confidence in his ability to fill vacant positions. - Jim Biga (Resident): Noted the lack of employment listings on the city website, criticized the decision to hire a non-local firm (Plant Moran) rather than local CPA businesses, and argued against using the same firm for accounting services and audit due to conflict of interest concerns, citing his experience as a former CFO. - Keith S. (P.M. G.A.P.): Stated that the temporary staff's main purpose is to train newer city employees and that their division specializes in this exact support. Discussion Items 1. Extension of Contract with Allie Brothers, Inc. (Police Department Uniforms) : William Tyee requested a three-year extension with a 3% increase. The vendor has been with the city since 1994. Councilmember Schell moved to place on the consent calendar. 2. Sole Source Renewal with Michigan Police Legal Advisor Group: Chief Thomas Goralski reported successful partnership over two years and a willingness to continue at the same price. Councilmember Morgan moved to place on consent. 3. Contract with Plant Moran Governmental Accounting Services (P.M. G.A.P.): Finance Director Benjamin Greer detailed severe understaffing (missing chief accountant, assistant chief accountant, clerk, capital planning manager) and proposed a $70,000 contract for four months (with optional two-month extension at $24,000) to bring in two experienced CPAs for coaching and training. Council discussed cost savings (net $43,000 after offset), the temporary nature, and guardrails to maintain audit independence. Councilmember Ptashnik moved to place on consent. 4. Additional Expenditure for 2024 Audit Services: Greer requested $45,000 from unexpended funds to cover out-of-scope work due to a new auditing standard (SAS 145) and staff vacancy-related delays. Councilmember Ptashnik moved to place on consent. 5. Release of General Obligation Limited Tax Bonds for Shelden Park: Greer stated 45% of costs from PRDA and 55% from city. Superintendent Ted Davis noted that including a pool would double costs and the department lacks lifeguards. Councilmember Buzinski moved to place on consent. 6. Contract Amendment with Tivy Health (Silver Sneakers): Davis requested approval for renegotiated pricing. Resident Denise Mica requested memberships not be limited to matinee times. Councilmember Toy moved to place on consent. 7. Sublease Agreement with Livonia Civic Arenas: Davis stated the agreement addresses needed work at Devon-aire and Eddie Edgar arenas. President McCullough moved to place on consent. 8. Purchase of Two John Deere Gators and Utility Tractor: Assistant Director Doug Moore explained the new vehicles will replace older ones being auctioned. Councilmember Ptashnik moved to place on consent. 9. Proposed 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule: President McCullough presented the schedule in compliance with the Open Meetings Act. He moved to place on consent. Key Outcomes - All nine new business items were directed to be placed on the consent calendar of the December 3, 2025 regular meeting; formal approval will occur at that voting meeting. - Council voted to refer a motion to the Law Department to draft a resolution waiving room rental fees at the library for Councilmember Buzinski's monthly coffee hours from January 2024 through December 2026. - No formal votes were taken during the study meeting; all actions were preparatory for the next regular meeting.

BUDGET EQUITY ANALYSIS 41% · PROCUREMENT PRACTICES 30% · FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY 11% · PROCEDURAL 8%
46
NOV 17, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council 2,029th Regular Meeting – November 17, 2025

The Livonia City Council held its 2,029th Regular Meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall Auditorium, 33000 Civic Center Drive, Livonia, Michigan. All seven councilmembers—Lynda Scheel, Scott Morgan, Laura Toy, Rob Donovic, Martha Ptashnik, Carrie Budzinski, and Brandon McCullough—were present. Also present were City Attorney Carter Fisher, City Clerk Lori L. Miller, Planning and Economic Development Director Mark Taormina, Council Office Program Supervisor Sara Kasprowicz, and Assistant City Engineer Dave Lear. The council approved corrected minutes, unanimously passed an 18-item consent agenda and all new business items, authorized a closed litigation session, gave first reading to a retirement-system ordinance amendment, and adjourned at 8:29 p.m. Minutes Approval - Council approved the November 5, 2025 regular meeting minutes as corrected by a 7-0 vote (Resolution 352-25). Corrections addressed motion attribution and gavel timing. - Public commenters Ralph McNabb, Nick Lomako, and Greg Ralko asked council not to approve the minutes, alleging that the previous meeting’s Sheetz site-plan motion was cryptic, that conditions were added after the vote, and that the rescission vote did not comply with Robert’s Rules. Council proceeded with approval. Consent Calendar The council unanimously approved the 18-item consent agenda (7-0), including: - Waiving the sidewalk requirement at 18723 Laurel Drive, while reserving the right to require sidewalks later if the area changes. - Reappointing Melissa Karolak and Nicholas Lomako to the Livonia Brownfield Redevelopment Authority for three-year terms expiring November 24, 2028. - Purchasing 180 Microsoft Office LTSC 2024 licenses from Dell for up to $60,359.20 to replace end-of-life Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 licenses. - Approving a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement for Villa St. Clare, an affordable senior housing development at 36800 Schoolcraft Road, with an annual service charge equal to 3% of Annual Shelter Rents and tax-exempt status lasting no more than 40 years. - Approving an increase to 200 vacation hours per year for listed overtime-exempt classifications, effective January 1, 2026. - Purchasing replacement furniture for the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center from Interior Environments – Novi for up to $99,000. - Authorizing emergency replacement of fire alarm speaker/strobes at the Kirksey Recreation Center for up to $48,713, funded by $61,000 in generator sale proceeds. - Purchasing 12 pairs of soccer goal nets from Anthem Sports for up to $43,020.06, including a 17% 'team' discount. - Purchasing two Toro Field Pro 6040 baseball diamond groomers from Spartan Distributors for up to $76,761.78. - Purchasing five Kohler Lazer S-Series 749 mowers from Weingartz for up to $65,915. - Awarding the 2026 Parks Tree & Stump Removal bid to Ashton Contracting, not to exceed $37,250, with up to $65,000 budgeted for emergency removals. - Awarding the 2026 Right-of-Way Tree & Stump Removal bid to Wonsey Tree Service for up to $228,484, with a possible one-year 2027 extension up to $229,634. - Approving the 2026 Road Repair Program as the fourth year of the ten-year paving millage, as reviewed by the Citizens Road Advisory Committee. - Amending engineering contracts for the 2026 Asphalt Road Program with OHM Advisors ($184,900), the 2026 Concrete Road Program with AEW ($193,500), and the 2026 Concrete Road Maintenance/Selective Slab Program with AEW ($84,500). - Amending Council Resolution 017-24 to designate Director of Finance Benjamin Grier, J.D., CPA as the city’s Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority representative, with Laura M. Toy as alternate. - During public comment, Steve King questioned whether item 9 was actually soccer goal nets versus soccer goals and questioned the cost; the consent agenda nonetheless passed 7-0. Reports from the Mayor and Other City Officials - The council received and placed on file 2025 Tax Rate Request communications from the City of Livonia, Wayne County Zoological Authority, Charter County of Wayne, Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority, Wayne County Art Institute Authority, and Livonia Public Schools. - Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan reported on the new Livonia Senior Wellness Center, a $29 million project with over $20 million raised from federal, state, county, and ARPA sources. She said Livonia has the largest senior population of any city in Wayne County, that more than 1,000 seniors attended the open house, and that the center offers free services to seniors. She also thanked staff and councilmembers for their work and said the administration was already starting work on the requested demolition report for the old senior center and old courthouse. - Doug Moore responded to leaf pickup questions, explaining that the schedule is planned months in advance, that this year’s leaves held on late, and that leaf hauling costs about $600,000 annually before equipment and labor. He also noted the brown bag leaf program continues until the second week of December. Public Comments & Testimony - Ralph McNabb (Fairway Dr.): Opposed minutes approval; said the Sheetz motion was cryptic, that minutes contained conditions never presented, and later said residents must follow zoning while businesses get their way by threatening lawsuits. - Nick Lomako (Edgewood): Asserted that the November 5 rescission of the Sheetz denial lacked adequate notice under Robert’s Rules, making the site plan approval invalid; asked council to postpone minutes and address the procedural violation. - Greg Ralko (Golfridge Villa): Questioned the rush to finalize the Sheetz site plan; asked that no permits or demolition occur before Wayne County Circuit Court rules on the resident lawsuit, and argued that fear of a Sheetz lawsuit was unfounded. - Katherine Rippe (retiree, St. Andrews Dr.): Requested an electronic funds transfer option for retiree healthcare premium payments, saying mail-in checks can be lost. - Steve King (Coventry Gardens): Asked council to reopen the common area at Silver Village, revisit the Silver Sneakers Medicare benefit at the Rec Center, and pass the amended block party ordinance. - Denny Baronson (Wayne Rd., representing Deer Creek, Golfridge, and Willow Woods): Requested a halt to permits and preliminary construction at the southeast corner of 8 Mile and Newburgh until the Wayne County court rules, saying a delay would protect both residents and developers. - Patty Riggio (resident): Called the Sheetz reversal a breach of trust, said residents feared falling home values, said she had 400 names in opposition, and argued that Sheetz-related lawsuit fears were unfounded because related suits were dropped or not filed by Sheetz. - Ron Riggio (Willow Woods): Said the Sheetz site plan approval was wrong, that council should listen to residents, and raised concerns about flooding and potential spills reaching Bell Creek. - Trevor Wilson (Hillcrest): Requested more randomization in leaf pickup scheduling because leaves were still falling when his zone's pickup had already occurred. - Jim Biga (resident): Cited Robert’s Rules and said the Sheetz rescission was handled improperly and should be readdressed. - Mason Masigian (resident): Asked council to consider lowering daily and annual pass costs at the Livonia Recreation Center. - Danielle Cato (Protective Parents Michigan): Called for family court reform and child-safety prioritization, citing that one in three Michigan families is impacted by domestic violence, that abusive parents seek sole custody and are successful 70% of the time, and that 39 Michigan children have been murdered during divorce or custody battles since 2008. She asked the city to consider proclaiming November as Family Court Awareness Month and discussed Rowan’s Act and Cadence Law. Committee of the Whole – Unfinished Business - Item 19a: The council discharged the Committee of the Whole from further consideration of the investigation into city departments and their procedures as related to the City’s Charter and took no further action (Resolution 374-25), 7-0. - Item 19b: Council office staffing and salaries remained in committee. Councilmembers praised Council Office Program Manager Sara Kasprowicz and said work would continue with the Human Resources Director; no final action was taken. Closed Session and Demolition Referral - The council voted 7-0 to authorize a closed Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss litigation and attorney-client privileged communications in Belmond Properties, LLC v City of Livonia, USDC Case No. 2:25-cv-11720, under Section 7(1) of the Open Meetings Act (Resolution 354-25). - The council voted 7-0 to refer the demolition of the old senior center and old courthouse to the Administration for a report and recommendation (Resolution 355-25). New Business - Item 20: Approved an additional expenditure of $9,235 to OHM Advisors for right-of-way easement work for the Newburgh Road Reconstruction Project from Ann Arbor Trail to Plymouth Road, 7-0. - Item 21: Approved the intergovernmental agreement with MDOT (Contract 25-5520) for the same Newburgh Road project, with estimated city participation of $871,018, including invoicing provisions for Wayne County DPS participation and traffic signal modernization reimbursement, 7-0. - Item 22: Accepted the Storm Water Facilities Maintenance Agreement from Livonia Storage, LLC for 11801 Sears Drive, allowing the city to maintain the storm drain system, 7-0. - Item 23: Amended Council Resolution 119-25 to correct the account number for payments to Joe Rotondo Construction Corp. for the Newburgh Road Sidewalk Extension Project; the contract amount remains not to exceed $145,814.40, plus $13,550 for survey/as-built engineering services, 7-0. - Item 24: Accepted a water main easement from Livonia Storage, LLC without monetary consideration, approximately 0.311 acres (13,544 sq ft) in Section 26, and directed the City Clerk to record it, 7-0. - Item 25: Vice President Ptashnik gave first reading to an ordinance amending Section 160 of Title 2, Chapter 96 of the Livonia Code of Ordinances, regarding qualifications for membership in the employees retirement system. President McCullough, Councilmember Morgan, and Councilmember Toy recused themselves during this item. No final vote was taken; the ordinance will return for further reading. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved 7-0 as corrected (Resolution 352-25). - Council voted 7-0 to grant Greg Ralko one additional minute of public comment (Resolution 353-25). - Consent agenda approved 7-0 (Resolutions 356-373). - Closed litigation session authorized 7-0 (Resolution 354-25). - Demolition report referral approved 7-0 (Resolution 355-25). - Committee of the Whole investigation item discharged 7-0 (Resolution 374-25). - New business items 20-24 approved 7-0 (Resolutions 375-379). - No motion was made to rescind the Sheetz site plan; council took no action on that matter during this meeting. - There was no audience communication at the end of the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 17% · PENDING LITIGATION 16% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 16% · PUBLIC WORKS 14%
47
NOV 5, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Study Meeting Sets Nov. 17 Consent Agenda – November 5, 2025

The Livonia City Council held its study meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, beginning at 10:04 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting, originally scheduled for 8:00 p.m., was delayed by the prior regular meeting. All 18 new-business items received a council motion to be placed on the consent agenda for the November 17, 2025 Regular Meeting; no objections were stated. No formal votes were taken at this study meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No audience communication was offered at the beginning or end of the meeting. - During discussion of Item 6 (vacation time increase), Jerry Karaszynski of 19488 Bainbridge commented that the affected employees are salaried. Consent Calendar — Directions for the November 17, 2025 Regular Meeting Each item below was moved to consent; the minutes record the motion maker. 1. Waive sidewalk requirement (18723 Laurel Drive, Ken and Lisa Hunt): City Engineer Todd Zilincik supported the waiver because there are no sidewalks in the area. (Moved by Morgan) 2. Reappoint Melissa Karolak to the Livonia Brownfield Redevelopment Authority for a term ending November 24, 2028: staff noted about six years of service and supported the reappointment. (Moved by Donovic) 3. Reappoint Nicholas Lomako to the Livonia Brownfield Redevelopment Authority for a term ending November 24, 2028: staff described him as a valued member. (Moved by Scheel) 4. Waive formal bidding for Microsoft Office LTSC 2024: the Police Department said Office Professional Plus 2019 is at end of life and the update is needed for state and federal compliance; state contract pricing was used. (Moved by Morgan) 5. PILOT for Villa St. Clare: see detailed discussion below. (Moved by Budzinski) 6. Vacation time increase for overtime-exempt classifications: Human Resources Director Jeannine Laible recommended extending the same vacation benefit as department heads, calling it cost-neutral and helpful for recruitment and retention. (Moved by Ptashnik) 7. Waive sealed-bid process and purchase furniture, not to exceed $99,000, for the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center: Parks Director Ted Davis said the furniture is original to the 23-year-old facility and will be bought through a cooperative with Interior Environments. (Moved by Morgan) 8. Emergency fire alarm speaker/strobe replacement at Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center: 103 strobes were evaluated, 22 were non-operational, and the mixed-age system created a seizure-safety risk; funding comes from generator sale proceeds. (Moved by Morgan) 9. Purchase 12 pairs of soccer goal nets: Assistant Public Works Director Doug Moore reported a 17% discount, for a total of $43,020.06. Discussion included a request to add nets to both sides at Mies Park in the future. (Moved by Budzinski) 10. Purchase two Toro Field Pro 6040 baseball diamond groomers for $76,761.78: Moore said state pricing was about half the cost of previously purchased units. (Moved by Toy) 11. Purchase five Kohler Lazer S-Series 749 mowers for $65,915.00: replacements for seven-to-eight-year-old units, purchased from local dealer Weingart's. (Moved by Toy) 12. Award 2026 Parks Tree and Stump Removal bid: five bidders; the apparent low bidder was rejected for failing to supply a bid bond and references, so the contract was directed to second-low bidder Ashton Tree Service, a Livonia company, with $65,000 in funds. (Moved by Ptashnik) 13. Award 2026 Right-of-Way Tree and Stump Removal bid: seven bids were received; low bidder Wonzi Tree Service (Alma) was recommended; costs were $228,484 for 2026 and $229,634 for 2027; 314 trees are on the removal list. (Moved by Budzinski) 14. Approve 2026 Road Repair Program: fourth year of the ten-year paving millage approved by residents in 2022; 48 street segments at approximately $10.38 million; 48% reconstruction, 35% rehabilitation, and 17% maintenance. Staff noted they rate roads themselves every two years, covering 373 miles and saving about $25,000 per cycle. (Moved by Donovic) 15. Amend OHM Advisors contract for the 2026 Asphalt Road Program (Contract 26-A): $184,900 design cost, 22 street segments in a $4.3 million program; OHM's Mark Locke has been involved since 2002. (Moved by Donovic) 16. Amend Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick (AEW) contract for the 2026 Concrete Road Program (Contract 26-C): $193,500 design cost, 17 street segments in a $4.5 million program; staff added Richland and Dardanella Avenue work to save mobilization costs. (Moved by Toy) 17. Amend AEW contract for the 2026 Concrete Road Maintenance/Selective Slab Program (Contract 26-J): $84,500 design cost, six street segments, and 23–25 miscellaneous locations in a $1.5 million program. (Moved by Morgan) 18. Amend Council Resolution 017-24 to designate Director of Finance Benjamin Grier as the city's official and voting representative at the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority annual meeting. Note: the documents spell the name inconsistently as Grier, Greier, and Greer. (Moved by Ptashnik) Detailed Discussion: Villa St. Clare PILOT (Item 5) - The request was to approve a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for Villa St. Clare, an affordable senior housing development at the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Convent, 36800 Schoolcraft Road, undertaken by Villa St. Clare Limited Dividend Housing Association, LLC. - The development is a partnership among MHT Housing, the Felician Sisters, and the Livonia Housing Commission. The PILOT would reduce the public-services service charge to 3%, described as about $24,000 per year. - Shawn Bannon, CFO for the Felician Sisters, said the sisters have a 150-year history in North America and nearly a century in Livonia; the convent's west wing is unused and will be redeveloped. - A councilmember asked whether the $24,000 would change; MHT noted the PILOT is calculated from annual shelter rents minus utilities, so it can increase as rents rise. - City Attorney Carter Fisher clarified the ordinance permits a PILOT term not exceeding 50 years, but the term may be extended if council determines a longer aggregate term is necessary to provide consistent and affordable housing. - MHT said all units will have some level of affordability, ranging from 30% to 80% of area median income; 32 Livonia Housing Commission vouchers will cap resident rent at 30% of income. The project's total development cost was cited as $25 million. - Renovations are expected to start next summer with about 16 months of construction. Discussion noted 86 senior units cited by a councilmember, while an MHT representative said the renovation would create 68 modern units. The exterior would be preserved, two elevators would be replaced, and individual heating and cooling control would be added. Key Outcomes - All 18 items received a motion to place them on the consent portion of the November 17, 2025 Regular Meeting agenda; no council member objected. - There were no formal approvals or rejections at the study meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 10:49 p.m.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING 23% · PARKS AND RECREATION 18% · HISTORIC PRESERVATION 12% · PUBLIC WORKS 12%
48
NOV 5, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Meeting: November 5, 2025

The Livonia City Council held its 2028th regular meeting on November 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. The meeting included routine approvals, community recognitions, and significant deliberation on development proposals. The primary focus was a contentious 4-3 reversal of a previous vote to approve a Sheetz gas station site plan. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the October 20, 2025 meeting were approved with corrections. - Consent items 1-5 were passed unanimously (6-0). Items included a massage establishment waiver transfer, fire station floor repair ($39,341), small business consulting ($120,000), pole barns ($231,000), and HVAC units ($123,248). Public Comments & Testimony - Election Results: Congratulations were extended to incoming council members Kayleigh Kavanagh-Reid, Patrick Brockway, and Eileen McDonnell. Candidate Steve King criticized the city's political establishment. - Condolences: A long period of tribute was dedicated to Bob Nash, former court officer and husband of the city treasurer. - Senior Housing: Ellen Dorman opposed the density of senior group homes. Deb Christiansen defended them as affordable housing for her mother. - Food Assistance: Joe Schafer requested expanded food delivery programs, referencing census data on an estimated 5,750 SNAP recipients in Livonia. - Sheetz Reversal Opposition: Over a dozen residents voiced strong opposition to the last-minute reversal of the Sheetz denial. Speakers called the process "shameful" and raised concerns about environmental hazards, traffic, the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) process, and the council's disregard for public input. Discussion Items - Clean Express Car Wash (Petition 2025-07-02-15): The council voted 5-2 to refer the waiver request to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion. - May Breeze Spa (Petition 2025-08-02-16): Approved unanimously (7-0) with specific conditions including no doors on treatment rooms. - Plymouth Road Development Authority (PRDA) (Items 8 & 9): Council voted unanimously (7-0) to refer boundary amendments and TIF plan updates to the Law Department. Planning Director Mark Taormina confirmed residential parcels are being removed from the district. - Civil Service Expenditures (Items 10 & 11): Additional spending for Empco services ($5,000 and $35,000) was approved 6-1, with McCullough dissenting. - Sidewalk Repair (Item 12): An additional $25,000 for trip hazard removal was approved 7-0. - Easements (Items 13-15): Three sanitary sewer easements from Livonia Builders G2, LLC were accepted 7-0. - Sheetz Site Plan (Petition 2025-08-08-07): - Motion to Rescind: Councilmember Scheel moved to rescind the October 20 denial (CR 333-25). The motion passed 4-3. - Motion to Approve: Councilmember Scheel then moved to approve the site plan. The motion passed 4-3. - Council Rationale for Approval: Members Donovic, Ptashnik, and Scheel argued the council lacked legal grounds to deny the plan since the ZBA had granted the use variance. They emphasized the high risk of an expensive lawsuit and the city's obligation to be fiscally responsible. - Rationale for Opposition: Members Budzinski, Toy, and McCullough opposed on environmental grounds (proximity to the Rouge River watershed), adherence to zoning ordinances (the 100-foot setback from parkland), and the overwhelming resident opposition, arguing the council was not listening to its constituents. Key Outcomes - Sheetz Approved: The council approved the construction of a 24-hour gas station, convenience store, and carry-out restaurant at the southeast corner of Newburgh and Eight Mile Roads. The approval includes conditions such as removing drive-thru order points and limiting the convenience pickup window to mobile/call-in orders only. - Car Wash Waiver Deferred: Further discussion on the Clean Express Car Wash was scheduled for a Committee of the Whole meeting. - Senior Wellness Center Opening: Mayor Miller Brosnan announced the grand opening timeline: ribbon cutting on November 13, community open house on November 15, and full operations beginning November 17. - New Firefighters: Three new firefighters were sworn in, with two positions funded by a $140,000 state EMS grant covering paramedic training costs. - Adjournment: The regular meeting was adjourned at 9:46 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 25% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 22% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 20% · PENDING LITIGATION 10%
49
OCT 20, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Study Meeting of the Livonia City Council - October 20, 2025

The Livonia City Council held a Study Meeting on Monday, October 20, 2025. Originally scheduled for 8:00 PM, the meeting was called to order at 10:33 PM following a lengthy Regular Meeting and adjourned at 11:58 PM. This Study Meeting sets the agenda items for the Regular Meeting on November 5, 2025. Council President Brandon McCullough presided. Councilmembers Rob Donovic, Carrie Budzinski, Lynda Scheel, Scott Morgan, and Laura Toy were present. Vice President Kathleen Ptashnik was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Christopher Martin (Resident): Spoke about free speech and integrity, praising former Council President Jim Jolly. - Denise Mica (Resident): Displayed a photo of a sign at Silver Village closing the community room, stating it was locked for a week following a housing meeting. - Steve King (Coventry Gardens / Council Candidate): Commented on the closure of community rooms at senior housing complexes. He discussed his campaign and urged civic engagement. - Council President McCullough requested the City Attorney provide clarification on the closure of community rooms at Newburgh Village and Silver Village. - Public Testimony on Clean Express Car Wash (Item 2): Multiple residents and local experts (Kathleen Bilger, Cindy Fleming, Barbara Glover, Betsy Calhoun, Ray Whitney, Jim Biga, Neil Morouski, Eileen McDonnell, Laura Janika) spoke in opposition or with deep concerns. Key themes included the fragility of the adjacent historic Livonia Cemetery (limestone markers, chemical runoff, historical significance), severe traffic congestion in the Quakertown and Six Mile area, the overabundance of car washes in Livonia, and a request for an independent traffic study. - Public Testimony on May Breeze Spa (Item 3): Landlord Marshall Isso spoke in favor of the applicant, confirming a 10-year lease was signed and that the tenant had already invested financially in the space. Discussion Items 1. Request to Extend Waiver Use Approval (Omorfia Esthetics) - Applicant: Wenli Parsons, purchasing the existing massage business in the Burton Hollow Shopping Center. She currently owns another business in Pontiac. - Council Reaction: Favorable. Councilmember Toy moved to place the item on the Consent Calendar for the November 5 Regular Meeting. 2. Waiver Petition: Clean Express Car Wash - Proposal: Demolish the former Buca di Beppo restaurant and construct a 14,230 sq ft auto-wash at 38888 Six Mile Road, adjacent to the Livonia Cemetery and Trinity House Theater. The site would feature right-in/right-out restrictions and a new traffic signal at Fox Drive funded by Schoolcraft College. - Applicant Position (Jacob Rilett, Rob Doer): The property owner stated no viable national restaurant chains were interested without significant subsidies. The applicant argued the car wash generates fewer new trips than a restaurant (estimated 70 peak hour trips, with a 75% pass-by traffic rate they considered a low-ball estimate). - Council Positions: Councilmember Budzinski moved to send the matter to a Committee of the Whole to discuss strategic concerns about the saturation of car washes. Councilmember Scheel moved for both Approving and Denying options. Councilmembers Donovic, Toy, and McCullough raised questions about traffic congestion, the impact of nearby development, lighting on vacuums, and the need for updated traffic studies. - Outcome: Three motions will be on the November 5 Regular Agenda (Approve, Deny, Committee of the Whole). 3. Waiver Petition: May Breeze Spa - Applicant: Zhaofang Yang, moving her business from a 900 sq ft location in Westland to a 3,000 sq ft space in the Plymouth Place Shopping Center. She plans to shift her focus to facial services. - Council Questions: History of operations, an unsubstantiated past complaint, and advertising methods. - Outcome: Councilmember Donovic moved to place both Approving and Denying options on the Regular Agenda. 4. Fire Station 3 Floor Repair - Deputy Fire Chief Wade Clay presented the award of bid to Gator Guard for apparatus bay floor repair and replacement from budgeted funds. Moved to Consent Calendar. 5. Small Business Grant Technical Assistance - Jacob Uhazie (Assistant Planning Director) presented the third and final round of COVID-19 relief funding for technical assistance to 20 businesses ($120,000 award to Proxy LOC). Moved to Consent Calendar. 6. Pole Barns for Parks - Doug Moore (Assistant Director of Public Works) presented the award of bid for two 40x60 prefabricated pole barns at Ford Field and Greenmead parks for equipment storage ($230,000 total for buildings and concrete pads). Moved to Consent Calendar. 7. HVAC Units for Fleet Garage - Doug Moore presented the award of bid for two rooftop HVAC units to replace the existing heating and swamp cooling system ($123,248). Note: The transcript suggests a Consent placement, but the official minutes record the final motion and direction as placement on the Regular portion of the Agenda. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar (November 5, 2025): Items 1 (Omorfia Esthetics), 4 (Station 3 Floor), 5 (Small Business Grant), and 6 (Pole Barns) will be voted on as a consent bloc, expected to be approved unanimously. - Regular Agenda (November 5, 2025): Item 2 (Clean Express Car Wash) with options to Approve, Deny, or send to Committee of the Whole. Item 3 (May Breeze Spa) with options to Approve or Deny. Item 7 (HVAC Units) will also be on the Regular portion. - Administrative Inquiry: Council President McCullough directed the administration to review and clarify the closure of community rooms at the Newburgh Village and Silver Village senior housing complexes. Meeting Adjourned: 11:58 PM

TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 31% · PUBLIC WORKS 15% · PROCEDURAL 10% · PUBLIC SAFETY 9%
50
OCT 20, 2025 · LIVONIA, MICHIGAN · CITY COUNCIL
Livonia City Council Regular Meeting – October 20, 2025

The Livonia City Council held its 2027th Regular Meeting on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium. Six members were present (Donovic, Budzinski, Scheel, Morgan, Toy, McCullough); Martha Ptashnik was absent. The meeting, which was a voting meeting, adjourned at 10:21 p.m. Key actions included the adoption of the FY 2025-2026 budget, a decision on the Sheetz site plan, and a referral of the Rotary Park pavilion reconstruction. Consent Calendar All 12 items on the Consent Agenda were approved unanimously (6-0). These included a Halloween block party permit (Item 1), SMART funding agreements for the Liv & Go senior/disabled transportation program providing $33,386 in operating assistance and $89,424 in municipal credits (Items 2, 3), a $46,011 bid for security cameras at the Kirksey Recreation Center (Item 4), a resolution supporting a DIA Partners in Public Art mural for Bicentennial Park (Item 5), an addendum for Senior Fitness Passports (Item 6), a $90,731 purchase of four liquid storage tanks (Item 7), $108,694 in repairs for a Vactor truck (Item 8), a $1.7 million Lead Identification/Removal Project funded through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (Item 9), a $1.7 million contract extension with D'Angelo Brothers for service line replacements (Item 10), a $198,334 amendment with OHM Advisors for water main construction engineering (Item 11), and a $2,479,179 construction contract with Murphy Pipeline Contractors for the 2025 Water Main Replacement Project (Item 12). Public Comments & Testimony - Marleen N. (Merriman Rd.) expressed strong support for the Livonia Symphony Orchestra, urging community attendance. - Steve King (Coventry Gardens) advocated for installing an "Urban Blue" self-cleaning smart restroom at Rotary Park. - Jenaveve Lenoir (9063 Beatrice), Denise Mika (Resident), and Lynn Mills (Plymouth Rd.) raised serious concerns about the management and living conditions at the Silver Village and Newburgh Village senior housing complexes, alleging unprofessional conduct at Housing Commission meetings and threats of eviction against residents who speak out. - Jenny O'Connor (West Chicago) announced a community listening forum and a Rotary Club polio fundraiser. - Christopher Martin (Resident) urged residents to vote for candidates who actively participate in council meetings. - Eileen McDonnell (Resident) encouraged voting and forum attendance. - James Hooper (Resident) formally requested the total city funds spent on the defeated Municipal Facilities Package and the official language for the property tax millage. - Deb Christiansen (Resident) addressed a recent "hot-mic" incident involving council members, requesting a public apology to the affected party and the city. Councilmember Donovic acknowledged the incident and stood by his comments, while defending his record. FY 2025-2026 Budget and Tax Millage Adoption Councilmember Scheel, reporting on the Finance and Budget Committee meeting of September 18 and the public hearing of September 29, moved to adopt the budget and set the tax levy. The motion passed unanimously (6-0). The total property tax millage rate was set at 13.7134 mills, a 0.5496 mill increase from the previous year. The adopted General Fund budget totals $76,979,194 in revenues and $76,970,601 in expenditures. Rotary Park Pavilion Reconstruction Councilmember Donovic reported that the Capital Outlay and Infrastructure Committee (Oct 13 meeting) reviewed plans to rebuild the pavilion destroyed by a 2024 tornado. Bids for a comparable rebuild ranged from $829,000 to $1.3 million, far exceeding the $260,000 insurance recovery. The city recently secured approximately $300,000 in state funds via Rep. Laurie Potsky, and the Rotary Club of Livonia committed roughly $100,000 in private donations. The council voted unanimously (6-0) to refer the project back to the Administration for a recommendation to rescope and fully rebid the project to comply with code requirements, and discharged the committee from the matter. Several residents, including Steve King, expressed frustration over the demolition of the original structure and advocated for modern, durable, and accessible facilities. Sheetz Site Plan Petition Following extensive debate and parliamentary maneuvering, the Council voted 4-2 to deny Petition 2025-08-08-07 for a Sheetz gasoline service station and limited-service restaurant with a drive-thru at the southeast corner of Newburgh and Eight Mile Roads. Councilmembers Toy and McCullough, who made the initial motion to deny, cited negative effects on neighboring properties and non-compliance with general zoning standards. Councilmembers Budzinski, Morgan, and Donovic argued that a ZBA variance had already permitted the gas station use and that rejecting a compliant site plan risked a costly lawsuit the city might not win, favoring approval with conditions (e.g., removal of the drive-thru). After a substitute motion to approve failed 3-3, and motions to table and refer failed 3-3, the original motion to deny passed. Voting in favor of denial: McCullough, Budzinski, Scheel, and Toy. Voting against denial: Donovic and Morgan. The denial cited failures to comply with Section 13.13 of the Zoning Ordinance, negative aesthetic effects, and concerns for public safety and welfare. Over a dozen residents spoke in opposition, citing traffic and environmental risks (particularly to the Bell Branch/Rouge River watershed), the proximity of Whispering Willows Golf Course and Greenmead Historical Park, and questioning the legality of the ZBA's variance process. Sheetz representative David Bruckelmeyer expressed willingness to remove the drive-thru. Presentations & Reports - Chief of Staff Dave Varga introduced Benjamin Grier as the new Finance Director. Mr. Grier is a licensed attorney, CPA, and former Finance Director for the City of Pontiac's retirement system. - City Engineer Todd Zilincik announced the official reopening of the Wayne Road bridge after nearly a year of construction. Council Office Staffing President McCullough made a motion, supported by Councilmember Donovic, to refer the subject of council office staffing and salaries to the Committee of the Whole for a report and recommendation. The motion passed unanimously (6-0).

ZONING 34% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 20% · PROCEDURAL 10% · PARKS AND RECREATION 9%
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